Rohan Lee and team: reggae workshops
Jamaican reggae singer Rohan Lee and a team of three education specialists delivered a unique two-day workshop programme in each city this summer. As well as traditional reggae skills and techniques, there were specific DJ and Sound Systems workshops, led by DJ Macka B, and a Jamaican Dance workshop, led by Rizla.
The programme incorporated:
Jamaican Dance
Theory: history and origination of moves and development over the years
Practical: specific dance hall movements and routines
Rehearsal Day: learning a dance routine as a group
DJ and Sound System
Theory: history, background and evolution of DJs and DJ culture and sound system; lyrics and their inspiration; realities and practical advice on career in the sector; questions and answers Practical: ‘Riding the Rhythm’ demonstration, workshops on writing lyrics and putting onto tracks; home-based practice with backing tracks; perfect the art of blending lyrics and rhythms
Reggae Music and Song
Theory: the history, development and legends of reggae music, demonstration of classic reggae rhythms, question and answer session
Practical: songwriting skills; playing instruments with reggae melodies and rhythms; blending songs and rhythms
Workshops were held as follows:
Derby Caribbean Carnival: 11 and 12 July 2005
Nottingham Caribbean Carnival: 13 and 14 July 2005
Leicester Caribbean Carnival: 15 and 16 July 2005